Fashion and fame often go hand-in-hand, but few expressions of this connection are as enduring as handbags named after celebrities. These bags not only capture the style and persona of the stars they are named after but also cement their legacy in the world of haute couture. Here’s a look at some of the most iconic celebrity-inspired bags and the stories behind them.
The Birkin Bag (Jane Birkin)
Perhaps the most famous celebrity-inspired bag, the Hermès Birkin, is named after English-French actress and singer Jane Birkin. The story goes that Birkin met Hermès CEO Jean-Louis Dumas on a flight in the 1980s. After discussing her need for a practical yet stylish bag, Dumas designed the now-iconic Birkin. Known for its luxury, exclusivity, and price, the Birkin remains a status symbol among the elite.
The Kelly Bag (Grace Kelly)
Another Hermès classic, the Kelly bag, was named after actress-turned-princess Grace Kelly. Originally introduced as the “Sac à Dépêches” in 1935, the bag gained fame when Grace Kelly used it to shield her pregnancy from paparazzi in 1956. The bag’s timeless elegance and association with royalty make it a sought-after piece.
The Lady Dior (Princess Diana)
Dior’s iconic Lady Dior bag was named in honor of Princess Diana. Originally called “Chouchou,” the bag was gifted to Diana by the First Lady of France in 1995. Diana was often photographed with it, catapulting the bag to global fame. Today, the Lady Dior remains a classic, embodying sophistication and grace.
The Alexa Bag (Alexa Chung)
British model and television presenter Alexa Chung inspired Mulberry’s Alexa bag. Launched in 2010, the bag combines classic satchel elements with a modern, edgy twist, reflecting Chung’s cool-girl aesthetic. It became a bestseller, cementing its place as a contemporary icon.
The Rihanna Saddle Bag (Rihanna)
In 2022, Dior released a version of its Saddle Bag inspired by Rihanna. Known for her bold fashion choices, Rihanna brought a fresh, modern flair to the classic design. The collaboration highlighted her influence in both music and fashion.
The Sofia Bag (Sofia Coppola)
Louis Vuitton created the Sofia bag in collaboration with filmmaker Sofia Coppola. Known for her understated elegance, Coppola designed the bag with versatility and style in mind. The Sofia bag is a chic, functional piece that mirrors Coppola’s personal taste.
The Gigi Bag (Gigi Hadid)
Model Gigi Hadid collaborated with Stuart Weitzman to create a namesake bag and boot line in 2017. The Gigi bag reflects her youthful energy and modern style, making it a hit among fashion enthusiasts.
[Contributed By Anushka Gaikwad]